Reality Check is a series by The Star that holds powerful individuals accountable for their actions and decisions. Recently, Kansas Republican Party Chairman Mike Brown issued a press release falsely accusing a University of Kansas instructor of making inflammatory remarks endorsing political violence in a viral video. The instructor in question was actually identified as Phillip Lowcock, a health sport and exercise lecturer at the university.
Brown’s initial press release, sent to all Kansas Republican Party email subscribers, did not disclose the correct name of the instructor. After being made aware of his mistake, Brown issued a second press release identifying Lowcock and calling for his firing. Lowcock has since been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation by the university.
The false accusations made by Brown echo similar incidents involving three Missouri state senators who wrongly accused a man of being a shooter at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade earlier this year. Brown’s actions have drawn criticism from various lawmakers for spreading misinformation and using state resources to fight lawsuits resulting from his false claims.
Despite the situation, the University of Kansas has stated that Lowcock apologizes for his remarks and regrets the situation. The university will follow its established process in dealing with this matter. For now, Lowcock has not responded to requests for comment. The journalism professor wrongly accused in Brown’s press release has also not issued a statement on the situation.
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